Trademark Registration in Hong Kong: Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademarks in Hong Kong are administered by the Intellectual Property Department (IPD) under its Trade Marks Registry. Hong Kong has its own independent trademark law and system, separate from Mainland China. It conducts a full, formal, and substantive examination, including a search for conflicting prior local registrations. Hong Kong is a member of the Madrid Protocol as a separate customs territory.
On this page
Hong Kong trademark registration at a glance
- Classification
- Nice Classification, 45 classes
- Madrid Protocol
- No (China's membership does not extend to Hong Kong)
- Language
- English or Chinese
- Opposition period
- 3 months from publication
- Typical timeline
- 6 to 8 months without objections
- Validity
- 10 years, renewable
* Timelines assume no objections or oppositions. Laws change, so contact us to confirm current requirements.
Why register your trademark in Hong Kong
Exclusive Rights
Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Hong Kong.
Legal Enforcement
Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the Hong Kong courts and relevant IP authorities.
Territorial Protection
Secures trademark protection specifically within Hong Kong, independent of Mainland China.
Market Positioning
Strengthens brand identity, builds consumer trust, and enhances competitive advantage in Hong Kong’s international business hub.
Our trademark services in Hong Kong
End-to-end support from our licensed in-country attorneys, from the first search to lifelong protection.
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for potential conflicts in Hong Kong.
Trademark Registration Services
Complete filing and application management for Hong Kong trademarks.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to maintain your Hong Kong trademark protection.
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of Hong Kong trademarks to identify potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership transfers in Hong Kong.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your Hong Kong brand.
Trademark registration process in Hong Kong
Here is how to register a trademark in Hong Kong, step by step.
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Hong Kong.
Filing
Applications are filed electronically via the IPD's online filing system or by paper. Required information includes the mark, applicant details, and a specification of goods/services.
Examination
The IPD examines the application for formal and substantive compliance. If there are issues, the IPD issues an examination report to which the applicant must respond.
Acceptance & Publication
Once accepted, the trademark application is published in the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Journal for public inspection.
Opposition Period
After publication, third parties have 3 months from the publication date to file an opposition against registration if they believe the trademark infringes existing rights.
Registration
If no opposition is filed (or if any oppositions are resolved in favour of the applicant), the trademark is registered and the Registration Certificate is issued.
Validity & Renewal
A trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the filing date. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods. Renewal can be filed within 6 months before the expiry date. A 6-month grace period after expiry is available upon payment of a substantial surcharge
Start your application in a few minutes. Nothing is filed until you approve the written quote.
Documents required for trademark registration in Hong Kong
Applicant’s name and address and nationality
Clear Representation of the mark
Description of goods/services
Passport Copy of the Applicant/ Authorised signatory
Copy of CR/Incorporation Certificate
Priority claim (if applicable) with proof
Power of Attorney if filed through agent
Timeline, validity and renewal
How long registration takes
Total processing time (filing to registration) is typically 6–10 months in straightforward cases without opposition
Validity and renewal
A trademark registration is valid for 10 years from the filing date. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods. Renewal can be filed within 6 months before the expiry date. A 6-month grace period after expiry is available upon payment of a substantial surcharge
Client stories
Businesses that trust us with their brands across borders.
We had an excellent experience working with Legacy Partners for trademark registration and brand protection services in India. Their expert team guided us throughout the filing process, ensuring accurate documentation, timely updates, and seamless support. Their professionalism and intellectual property expertise gave us confidence in protecting our brand identity while supporting our expansion into new markets.
We had a seamless experience working with Legacy Partners for trademark registration services in Bahrain. Their professional team provided excellent support throughout the trademark filing process, ensuring timely updates, accurate documentation, and smooth coordination. Their expertise in intellectual property and brand protection services helped us secure our brand identity with confidence.
* Client stories are shared with permission.
Trademark registration in Hong Kong: FAQ
Which authority governs trademark registration in Hong Kong?
Trademark registration in Hong Kong is administered by the Hong Kong Intellectual
Property Department (IPD) through its Trademarks Registry
Who can apply for a trademark in Hong Kong?
Any individual, company, partnership, or legal entity, whether local or foreign, may
apply for trademark registration in Hong Kong
Is Hong Kong a separate trademark jurisdiction from China?
Yes. Hong Kong has an independent trademark system, separate from Mainland
China. A trademark registered in China does not extend protection to Hong Kong, and
vice versa.
Is use of a trademark mandatory before filing in Hong Kong?
No. Prior use is not mandatory at the time of filing. However, the applicant must have
a bona fide intention to use the trademark
What happens if I don't renew my trademark on time?
There is a 6-month grace period after the expiry date to renew upon payment of
additional late fees. If not renewed within this period, the registration will be removed
from the register and cannot be restored
Does a Hong Kong trademark provide protection outside Hong Kong?
No. Trademark protection is territorial and applies only within Hong Kong unless
separate filings are made in other jurisdictions
What is the validity period of a registered trademark in Hong Kong?
A registered trademark is valid for 10 years from the filing date
What is the opposition period in Hong Kong?
Any third party may file an opposition within 3 months from the publication date.
Can a registered trademark be cancelled for non-use?
Yes. A trademark may be vulnerable to revocation if not used continuously for 3 years
without valid reasons
Are trademark searches mandatory in Hong Kong?
No. However, a clearance search is strongly recommended to assess risks of refusal or
opposition
Trademark registration in nearby countries
We cover 190+ countries and regional offices. See every country we cover.
Register your trademark in Hong Kong today
Speak to our trademark consultants in Hong Kong. Send your mark and we will reply with a free search and a fixed written quote within one working day.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Official requirements and fees can change; we confirm the current position for your matter before filing.
